The National Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has said Nigeria’s most important reform is the reform of leadership, stressing that the country’s development depends largely on the character, competence and commitment of those entrusted with public office.
Obi stated this after meeting with a group of young Nigerian professionals in Washington, D.C., United States.
The former Anambra State governor said the meeting brought together Nigerian medical doctors and other healthcare professionals, educators, lawyers, engineers, technology experts, entrepreneurs and business leaders.
He said the discussions focused on Nigeria, the challenges facing the country and the kind of nation Nigerians should work together to build.
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According to Obi, while economic, political and institutional reforms remain important, leadership reform must take priority.
He said, “No nation can rise above the character, competence, capacity, and commitment of those entrusted with its leadership.”
Obi said Nigeria was blessed with intelligent people, abundant natural resources and hardworking and innovative young people, but had suffered from a lack of leadership that genuinely prioritises citizens and treats public resources as a sacred trust.
The presidential candidate called for leadership that would strengthen institutions, invest in education and healthcare, support businesses and entrepreneurs, create jobs and provide opportunities for young Nigerians.
He also said Nigerians needed a country where hard work could translate into a better quality of life.
Obi said his interaction with young Nigerians in Washington reminded him of the talent Nigerians continue to demonstrate across the world.
He noted that Nigerians in the diaspora were making significant contributions in medicine, technology, engineering, law, education and business.
According to him, the Nigerian diaspora should not be viewed simply as people who have left the country but as an important part of Nigeria that should be involved in rebuilding the nation.
He called for a Nigeria where young people would not be forced to leave the country to fulfil their dreams and where Nigerians living abroad could confidently return, invest and contribute to national development.
Obi maintained that such a Nigeria was possible but would require responsible and compassionate leadership, stronger institutions, prudent management of resources and citizens who refuse to give up on the country.
He said Nigeria’s greatest resource was its people rather than the natural resources beneath its soil.
“If we get leadership right, we can get Nigeria right,” Obi said.
He urged Nigerians to continue believing in the country, working for its development and demanding a nation that works for everyone.
